DeSoto County Sheriff Bill Rasco said on Wednesday the county's first sheriff substation, or precinct, is expected to be operational by Feb. 1.

His plan is to locate it in the back of a Suzuki dealership in Olive Branch.
 
"There is not going to be a whole lot of cost to the taxpayer after all," the sheriff said. "The businessman is donating the space and paying the light bill and water bill to come in there. He feels like it will benefit him having law enforcement that close to his business and surrounding business in that area."

MORE: DeSoto Co explores idea of substations
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Sheriff Rasco is looking for business locations for two other substations and businesses that will let the department have unused rental space at next to no cost.

"We have to have one at the western part of the county, and to be honest with you, I wouldn't mind having one in the northern part of the county also," Sheriff Rasco said.

The sheriff's office is trying to cut down on response times around the county while staying within his budget, Sheriff Rasco said.

"We have to stay in budget," he said. "That's why we have a budget. Plus, it's going to be saving time and money and our guys' wear and tear on the vehicles. They will not have to be running to clock in to be right back to work. They will be able to start their work from the substation in Olive Branch."

The only expense that will be incurred at the Olive Branch substation will be running of some lines for both computers and phones, the sheriff added.